Five 8th-grade students from Hillsboro Middle School had the opportunity to gather for a day of creative enrichment at the Visual Arts Festival held at DeSoto High School on Thursday, May 1st. Joseph Hora, Brayden Meseberg, Alexis Stanek, Ava Peterson, and Lila Johnson joined talented peers from surrounding areas, including Wonewoc, Brookwood, and Richland Center, for this day of artistic invention.
One of the day's highlights was a presentation by renowned artist Michael Martino. Martino, a Wisconsin native, shared his creative journey and sculpting process. Martino's artistic achievements are impressive, and include a bronze medal at the 1998 Winter Olympic Arts Festival in Japan and third place at the 2000 World Snow Sculpture Championships in Sweden.
Following the presentation, students participated in three hands-on project sessions. One session allowed students to collaborate on a mural painting project under the guidance of Mr. Martino. This unique opportunity allowed students from different schools to come together and express their creativity in collaboration.
The Visual Arts Festival provided a valuable experience for these 8th-grade students, engaging their artistic talents, encouraging collaboration, and exposing them to the work and wisdom of a professional artist. The district is proud to have these students represent Hillsboro Middle School at this regional event.